Sen. Menendez May Be Charged This Week on Corruption Accusations

United States Senator Robert Menendez could be charged this week by federal prosecutors for allegedly taking gifts from a prominent Florida eye doctor who has also been a major donor to the New Jersey legislator’s political campaigns.

According to the Wall Street Journal, citing sources familiar with the years-long investigation, the type of charges are not yet known, but will likely relate to corruption and will be filed in New Jersey.

Salomon Melgen, a longtime friend and political benefactor to Menendez, is said to have given the senator gifts in exchange for political favors, according to previous reports. The investigation into the relationship began two years ago when the doctor’s office was raided by the FBI.

Menendez has denied any wrongdoing, saying in a statement earlier this month:

“Let me be very clear: I have always conducted myself appropriately and in accordance with the law. Every action I and my office have taken for the 23 years that I have been privileged to serve in the US Congress has been based on pursuing the best policies for the people of New Jersey and of this entire country.

“Anyone who knows me, knows I fight for the things that are important – like making sure victims of Superstorm Sandy have the tools they need to rebuild their lives or making certain Iran never, ever achieves the ability to produce nuclear weapons,or ensuring our health care system works for all Americans and is run properly...

“That’s who I am. And I’m not going anywhere.

“As to Dr. Melgen, everyone knows he and his family, and me and my family, have been real friends for more than two decades. We celebrate holidays together, have been there for family weddings and funerals, and have given each other birthday, holiday, and wedding presents – just as friends do.